Diabetes & You

Teenager

While most young people with diabetes are likely to suffer from Type 1, an increasing number is being diagnosed with Type 2. Speak to your healthcare professional to find out more about your condition.

You will need to keep your blood glucose levels under control. Use a suitable meter to help you find out how your favourite meals can affect your blood glucose. If it rises too quickly, consider incorporating lower GI foods into your diet. These are digested slower and thus raise your blood glucose more gradually.

If your meal times are irregular, test your blood glucose to see if your levels are safe or if you need a snack to keep going. Ask your healthcare professional how testing can help you balance a smaller food intake with your insulin dose.

You don’t have to give up your dreams of becoming a professional athlete when you have diabetes. In fact, a lot of very well know sport celebrities have diabetes. You can and should still exercise as it helps to improve your body’s sensitivity to insulin and blood glucose control. Just make sure you monitor your blood glucose levels at regular intervals and carry carbohydrate snacks for a boost when necessary.

Go out and have fun partying with your friends! Be sure to party smart by eating before you drink, and bring a friend who understands your condition so that he or she can watch over you. Be careful not to over drink and keep a snack with you at all times, just in case.

Important Notice: Information provided is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any health care questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to health care issues.

Experts say most people diagnosed with diabetes should try to keep their blood glucose level as close as possible to the level of someone who doesn’t have diabetes. The closer to normal your blood glucose is, the lower your chances are of developing serious health problems.

Your health care team will help you learn how to reach your target blood glucose range. Your main health care providers are your doctor, nurse, diabetes educator, and dietitian.